A nurse is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care, supports physicians, and implements treatment plans. Essential duties include assessing patient vitals, administering medications, operating medical equipment, and coordinating daily care. Nurses also provide emotional support and educate patients on preventative care and recovery.
Key Roles & Responsibilities -
Patient Assessment: Collect medical histories, evaluate symptoms, and record vital signs like blood pressure and body temperature.
Treatment Implementation: Execute physicians' orders, which includes administering medications, managing IVs, changing dressings, and assisting in medical procedures.
Patient Care Planning: Develop, implement, and adjust individualized nursing care plans alongside multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Documentation & Charting: Maintain accurate, confidential patient health records using Electronic Health Records (EHR) software.
Education & Support: Counsel patients and their families about medical conditions, treatment outcomes, and health maintenance.
Environment & Safety: Enforce strict hygiene and infection control standards, and prepare/sterilize medical equipment.